Overview:
We are seeking an Installation Technician (entry-level welcome) to join our team in Gilmer, TX. In this role, you will be the face of Skynet Internet for new and existing customers – performing installations of our wireless internet service at homes and businesses. You’ll handle everything from mounting small antennas on rooftops or poles, to running cables into the building, to setting up the customer’s router and ensuring they have a strong connection. This position involves a mix of outdoor and indoor work: climbing ladders and working on rooftops outside, then configuring equipment and talking with customers inside. It also involves daily travel around our service area (company vehicle provided). Note: This role will start as a contract position (hourly) with the intention to convert to a permanent full-time employee after 6 months based on performance and company needs. Like all roles, it includes a 90-day trial period at the start.
Key Responsibilities:
Customer Site Installations: Install fixed wireless internet equipment at customer locations. Mount small antennas or radio receivers on rooftops, towers, or eaves with clear line-of-sight to our tower, and securely run cabling from the exterior to the customer’s indoor network point. This includes drilling through walls as needed and weather-sealing any cable entry points.
Equipment Setup and Configuration: Configure and align the wireless radios and test signal strength to ensure the customer is getting a strong, quality connection. Set up and configure Wi-Fi routers or modems inside the customer’s premise and connect their devices as needed. Verify that the customer’s internet service is working properly before finishing.
Customer Education and Support: Communicate with customers professionally and courteously during installs. Explain basic use of the equipment (e.g., how to reboot the router, where the antenna is located) and answer any questions. Maintain a positive company image through friendly service, as you are often the only in-person interaction customers have with our company.
Maintenance and Service Calls: In addition to new installs, perform service calls for existing customers as assigned. This can include troubleshooting connectivity issues (replacing or re-aiming an antenna, replacing cables or equipment, checking alignment) and helping customers with Wi-Fi or equipment problems inside the home.
Work Documentation: Keep accurate records of each installation or service call (equipment installed, signal readings, work performed, etc.). Ensure customers sign off on service completion and update the office on any account changes or follow-up needed.
Safety and Tools: Safely climb ladders (often one-story, occasionally two-story roofs) and use hand/power tools (drills, cable crimpers, etc.) to mount and secure equipment. Drive to customer locations in a company-provided vehicle – planning efficient routes and maintaining the vehicle and equipment inventory. Follow all safety guidelines (use harness on steep roofs, practice ladder safety, etc.) to prevent accidents.
Qualifications:
Education & Experience: High school diploma or GED. Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply – we will train you on our specific equipment and processes. Experience in a related field (cable/satellite TV installer, electrician’s helper, telecom technician) is a plus but not required. Basic familiarity with home networking (Wi-Fi, routers) or running cables is beneficial.
Physical & Outdoor Work: Ability to climb ladders and work on rooftops safely. Comfortable working outdoors in various conditions when mounting equipment. Must be able to lift 40-50 lbs. and handle power tools. You should not have a fear of heights.
Technical Skills: General computer and device literacy (able to configure a Wi-Fi router via a web interface or app). Willingness to learn how to align point-to-point wireless radios and use diagnostic apps/tools to check signal strength. Good problem-solving skills to troubleshoot installation issues (like figuring out why a signal is weak or adjusting equipment for better performance).
Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills. You will be entering customers’ homes and businesses, so professionalism and courtesy are a must. Ability to clearly explain basic tech concepts to non-technical people and to be patient in answering questions. A “caring attitude” toward customer needs and a positive, friendly demeanor are important.
Reliability & Teamwork: Self-motivated and able to work independently on job sites, yet also coordinate with the office and other technicians. Punctual and reliable in attendance. Willing to continually improve your knowledge of our equipment and suggest positive improvements to our systems.
License & Travel: Valid driver’s license required. Clean driving record preferred (for insurance purposes) as you will be driving a company van/truck daily. Willingness to travel throughout our service area (generally within ~30-40 miles of Gilmer) each day. No overnight travel required – you’ll return home daily.
Compensation:
Hourly Rate: ~$16 – $22 per hour (depending on experience and performance). This is a competitive entry-level pay range for our region. Successful contractors who transition to full-time may be eligible for raises commensurate with skills and performance.
Employment Type: Starts as a contract position (hourly) for the first 6 months. Upon successful performance and business needs, the role is intended to transition into a regular full-time position. As a contractor, you will still be working full-time hours and treated as part of the team – the arrangement is primarily a trial/proving period.
Benefits: While on the initial contract, you will receive training and experience. Once converted to full-time. We provide all necessary tools, company vehicle for work use, and cover job-related expenses.
Schedule: Typically, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We generally do installs during daylight hours. You might occasionally be asked to work a weekend or evening if a customer’s schedule requires or for an urgent service call, but overtime is not common. We value work-life balance and will schedule in advance when possible.
90-Day Trial Period:
All Installation Technicians begin with a 90-day introductory period. This 90-day trial is an opportunity for you to get comfortable with the job and for Skynet to assess your skills and customer service. We provide close support and feedback during this time. By the end of 90 days, you should feel confident in solo installations. A successful 90-day review means you’re on track for a long-term role. This is standard procedure to ensure the right fit and maintain our high service standards.